CURRENT PROJECTS

environmental commitments

For sustainable viticulture.

Climate change adaptation

In 2026, the union is working on revising the AOC specifications. The National Institute of Origin and Quality (INAO) has implemented tools to test strategies for adapting to climate change. One of these tools allows AOCs to test grape varieties not included in the appellation's specifications.

Initially, the union will establish a list of grape varieties of interest. These will then be planted on limited areas and used for experimentation. The plots will be monitored agronomically, and the wines produced will undergo rigorous evaluation.

If, after several years of experimentation, the tested grape varieties meet the objectives set and respect the nature and style of Saumur-Champigny wines, they may be included in the specifications as a secondary grape variety.

Biodiversity and natural regulation in the vineyard

Bats, potential allies of the vineyard

Since 2023 the union has been taking a closer look at bats because they could be very interesting allies in the fight against the flavescence dorée leafhopper (an incurable disease causing rapid decline of infected vines, which is transmitted by leafhopper bites).

A territory favorable to their presence

The Saumur region, with its troglodyte caves, is a very important hibernation site for several species of bats. These sometimes travel more than a hundred kilometers each autumn to reach it.

Naturalist studies and monitoring in vineyards

In order to better understand their functioning, to identify the species that hunt in the vineyards and to measure their abundance, listening sessions are carried out regularly in the plots with the support of a naturalist from the LPO.

An already remarkable biodiversity

So far, 18 of the 22 known species in Maine-et-Loire have been identified in the vineyards of Saumur-Champigny.

Vitipastoralism

A developing practice

Vitipastoralism, the practice of grazing sheep in vineyard plots during winter, is becoming increasingly common. This allows for the natural control of weeds while limiting mechanical or chemical interventions, in line with agroecological principles.

Given the small number of farmers in the Saumur region and the limited number of winegrowers able to have their own flock, the union has begun a discussion aimed at facilitating the establishment of a shepherd and his flock in the appellation, in order to support the development of this practice.

Initial experiments in the vineyards

Some winegrowers are conducting trials this winter and spring by introducing Solognote sheep to their vineyards to maintain the vegetation cover between the rows of vines. The benefits will be visible from the beginning of spring.

Explore the Saumur-Champigny terroir

Saumur-Champigny is the result of a unique balance between a grape variety, a soil and a river.
Cabernet Franc, tuffeau, Loire, biodiversity and the commitment of the winemakers together make up the identity of the vineyard and shape the character of the wines of the appellation.

Discover the elements that contribute to the expression and uniqueness of Saumur-Champigny wines.

cabernet franc

Cabernet Franc, the emblematic grape variety of the Loire Valley, is at the heart of the identity of Saumur-Champigny wines. Here, it reveals all its finesse and elegance.

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